Newsfeed
Printer-Friendly ModeInternational Programs holds Study Abroad Fair
February 20, 2006 —
Thirteen countries were represented at the Study Abroad Fair held Wednesday in the Student Center Rotunda outside the SVSU Bookstore.
The fair ran from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and students interested in studying abroad could come by at any time to learn more about the various programs offered.
"Students should study abroad so that they can get out into the world, have new experiences, and gain some independence," said Barb Cohen, assistant director of International Programs. "If students are interested in study abroad, now is the time to do it. Finances are available and credits count towards graduation."
The majority of individuals managing the fair's information tables were students who had traveled to the countries through a study abroad program, and they seemed to agree with Cohen.
Student Mark Kraemer went to Taipei, Taiwan for the Fall 2004 semester to partake in the English Corner, a program that helps teach the English language to those wishing to learn.
"I just thought, 'Taiwan ... why not?'" Kraemer explained. "I think traveling abroad is a great experience because you can see things you can't get by watching National Geographic. Traveling allows you to experience everything firsthand."
Like most study abroad participants, Kraemer did not know any of the foreign language before he went.
"Language could be a barrier, but it really wasn't for me," Kraemer said. "I was served an English omelet with squid once, but otherwise some vendors spoke a bit of English."
Additionally, many of those who decide to study abroad do not have much travel familiarity. Cohen acknowledged that most of the students who come to her office for the first time do not have a passport, and are therefore slightly tentative.
"Sometimes students are hesitant about going alone, but you usually make more friends and meet more people when you go by yourself," Cohen said. "It's normal to be nervous about going, but afterwards students always love it."
Studying abroad can also help highlight unique qualities for future employers.
"The fact that a person has studied abroad tells others that they are independent, curious, intelligent, resourceful, adventurous, and culturally sensitive," Cohen said.
The application deadline for spring, summer, and fall study abroad programs is March 15. Those interested should contact Cohen at bcohen@svsu.edu or call (989) 964-4473.